There's something I've been meaning to do for a long time ever since I started writing here. You know those stories where the writer wrote an opening song? Yup, I've always wanted to do that. Since it's only a one-time deal as I'm too lazy to make it every time, I decided to make one for this Christmas special. I decided to use Bless Your Name, Highschool DxD BorN's opening theme. Anyway, a warning for those who reads. This is a special story with no relation to the plot apart from perhaps a few things I might use later on. This is non-canon to the current plot since I haven't written things far enough. Perhaps a little experiment on the character relations for future use.
(Sono mune no koe, kikoetara) Shows Haruka walking with his back turned to the screen
(Nando demo umarekawaru New Born) Haruka turns backward and slashes the screen with his sword
(instrumental) Shows the title "Trinity DxD: Awakening of The Successors" with Haruka and Xenovia in the background crossing their sword
(Mou, kore ijou wa kakusenai yo) Shows Xenovia walking alone looking down on the path to Kuoh academy with Twilight's form behind her in ghostly form
(Sukui to uzuki kagami no paradox) Shows Haruka walking alone under the rain somewhere in Europe with Momoka in ghostly form floating behind him
(Jibun to mukaiatte kidzuita'n da) Shows Melia wiping off her sweat during an intense training session with Kazuya
(Tamashii no arika wa, kitto negai no shitone) Shows Ophis's first meeting with Issei while Issei is talking excitedly to her
(Deatta shunkan ni fureta) Shows the time when Haruka first met Xenovia and he offers her his hand
(Tenohira ni koboreteta) Zooms in on Xenovia's hand touching Haruka's
(Namida no netsu, kokoro ni toketa kara) Showing stills of Irina, Griselda, Yuuto, and Dulio as exorcists doing their mission
(Kakeaeru no) Shows Ophis leading the dragons on a march in front of a fiery background with Issei in his dragon form, Ddraig, and Tiamat closely behind her
(Tagai no) Zooms in on Melia with Rias, Sona, Sairaorg, and Vali behind her in a dark room
(Omoi Dear by Dear...) Shows the Maou group in the left side of the screen, the Trinity in the center, and Michael, Gabriel, and Azazel in the right side
(Mattete!) Shows Xenovia chasing after Haruka's back as he turns around
(Konna zetsubou no naka erabitoru no wa) Shows Haruka and Xenovia fighting Reika and Tatenashi on rooftops
(Shukufuku nanka ja nai tashika na feeling) Haruka and Reika's clash results in an explosion and the Golden Witch appear from the blast along with Ouroboros
(Sono mune no oku, todoku made) Shows Xenovia holding the locket Haruka gave her and place it over her heart as she cries
(Nando demo yobikakeru yo) Shows Haruka's return to Xenovia
(Your Name) Shows Haruka and Xenovia's hands clasped together with the locket tied around them
Christmas special
Part 1: Party Preparation
-December 24th-
It is the day before Christmas and the student council (with persuasion from Melia Sitri) are busy doing preparations for a Christmas party in Kuoh academy gym.
"I can't believe we devils are preparing to have a Christmas party. It feels odd."
Saji Genshirou complained while he helps put up decoration with Hanakai Momo.
"It's not really strange now that we've made peace with the other two biblical factions. It will actually show that we're now close with each other to celebrate things like this. It's not like we ask you to participate in a Christmas mass, Saji-kun."
Melia Sitri commented from her position near the stage where she is setting up the Christmas tree… which is quite far from Saji's position at the opposite end of the gym.
"Wait, she can hear me from here?"
Saji is surprised by the sharpness of Melia's hearing while Momo gave up from being surprised about every little thing that Melia do.
"Gen-chan, you shouldn't be surprised by what Melia-sama can do by now. We gave up on being surprised long ago. It would take her destroying the moon to make us surprised again."
"That could be arranged, Hanakai-kun."
Was Melia's reply. Momo really hoped that it's just a joke but somehow Melia destroying the moon doesn't sound too farfetched.
"Can you really destroy the moon, Melia-sama?"
Yura Tsubasa who is also putting up decorations at another corner of the gym asked.
"Not something I would do unless under extreme circumstances. It will mess up the gravitational stability of Earth and the space around the planet. I'm not looking forward to fixing that by myself."
Although Yura asked it as a joke, she immediately shut up when Melia answered her honestly. Well, to be precise, Melia had not reached that level of power yet. She still has ways to go before reaching that level but a lot of effort and pushing herself to the limit should allow her to at least destroy a good chunk of Earth's natural satellite.
"So Hanakai-kun, Saji-kun, Yura-kun, Kusaka-kun, do you have any dates for tomorrow?"
Melia asked, addressing everyone currently present in the gym. Kusaka Reya is helping Melia in setting up the tree so she is the closest in position to the super devil. At the future maou's sudden question, Momo immediately cast a glance at Saji which doesn't go unnoticed by Melia's sharp eyes. Melia won't call out Momo on this.
"I don't really have someone to take as a date tomorrow. The closest person to my ideal type is Hyoudou-kun but he'll definitely take one of his girls, most likely Ophis."
Yura answered truthfully.
"I also don't have anyone to ask. But I hear that fukukaicho asked Kiba-kun to go with her earlier today."
Reya also answered.
"I uhh… I…"
Momo though is unsure whether to answer or not while she keeps looking at Saji. The poor boy is oblivious to the girl giving him glances though. Melia finds it amusing.
"I will ask kaicho to be my date after this!"
Was Saji's declaration. The girls gave their sympathy to Momo and Nimura Ruruko who is currently not present with them but also has a crush on the Vritra boy. Melia sighs at the boy's blatant declaration of love to her aunt. It's not like she hates Saji but Melia absolutely abhors the idea of Saji becoming her uncle. Besides, Sona already likes someone else and she's keeping it a secret. It's still a crush and Sona is not yet sure that she actually loves the boy.
"You know Saji-kun, you have to beat aunt Sona in a game of chess to actually date her."
"I know that…"
"And then you have to beat me in a battle to death and then beat my mother in another battle to death and then my father just to complete the set."
"…What?"
"You don't expect it to end with just beating Sona, right? you have to win the approval of her family too which coincidentally, I am one. Of course, since mother loves aunt Sona very much, you also have to beat her and then beat my father just to complete the family set. I don't know about grandfather though."
Saji immediately pales at the mention of the hurdles he has to face to get to Sona though Momo seems to be pleased. She understands that this is a message meant for her from Melia. The super devil is basically telling Saji that it's impossible for him to get Sona. Even Vritra inside Saji's sacred gear seems amused.
"But what about you, Melia-sama?"
Yura return the previous question back to Melia. She thought for a while as she goes through the possible candidates to be her partner. To be honest, there aren't much that she could choose from.
"I don't really have anyone in mind though the closest candidates would be either Sairaorg or Vali. Fujii Ren might also get into the list but well, I don't really have anyone specific in mind. I have high requirement after all. Ren, Sairaorg, and Vali passed the strength requirement. They're also nice if you know how to handle each of them though Vali would be the hardest. I'm leaning more towards Vali but many things could still happen. Still, I think I won't have any date for tomorrow. Vali and Sairaorg are busy and Fujii-kun is spending time with the younger Tepes sister."
"Ohh… What about Hyoudou-kun?"
"Ise? He is nice but he belongs to Ophis."
"What about Shidou-kun?"
"…you guys forget that me and Haruka is actually blood related."
Ohh they completely forgot about that indeed. Only when Melia mentioned it again that they remember that despite the differences in visual, the two of them are actually brother and sister.
"Besides, otouto-kun's date is already decided."
Right, Shidou Haruka has eyes only for one girl and they all knew that. Many girls envy Xenovia since Haruka is like the prince of Kuoh due to his good looks and overall nice personality. Most of all, the girls envy how devoted he is to Xenovia. Melia is sure that if there's a supermodel wearing sexy lingerie trying to seduce him and Xenovia just standing in her school uniform in the same room, Haruka won't even register the supermodel's existence in his mind. Although it might sound like Haruka is very possessive, borderline obsessed, with Xenovia, he is actually very understanding. He worries about her, yes, but he knows when to give her privacy and time without him. All the girls envy Xenovia for getting a boyfriend like Haruka.
Melia and the members of the student council currently present in the gym continue their work while chatting about trivial things… except for Saji who is in despair about the hurdles he has to face if he wants to get Sona.
Part 2: A Short Date
"Achoo-"
"Haruka, are you okay? Is it too cold?"
Xenovia asked her boyfriend worriedly.
"Strange, my body shouldn't be able to get sick. Maybe someone is talking about me. Well, whatever. Anyway, where do you want to go? We still have four hours left until the Christmas mass in heaven."
Shidou Haruka and Xenovia Quarta is currently on a date. It is rare to see them wearing casual clothing, especially Haruka who usually wore some kind of uniform, usually his school uniform or his custom exorcist battle uniform. Xenovia is currently wearing simple blue shirt and white jeans and a white winter jacket along with a red scarf. Haruka went with all black down to his shoes and winter coat. It is his father's signature color and Xenovia think that it suits Haruka. The color black seems to suit the whole family… apart from Momoka who wears white and navy-blue.
"Hmm… I don't really know much about what to do when on a date. You used to drag me around back when I was still training, why don't you surprise me like back then?"
"…that's a good idea."
Haruka's first idea is to try taking Xenovia to a shopping mall. It is a suggestion he got from Irina a few months back as he is not really knowledgeable about planning a date. But for some unknown reason, the first shop Xenovia decided is…
"A lingerie shop?"
"Yes. I just remember that my bra has become too tight. I will need a few new ones and I want you to pick for me."
Shidou Haruka is not someone to be easily embarrassed. Just like what Melia suspected, he is someone who won't even bat an eyelid if there is a supermodel trying to seduce him on his bed. But Xenovia is another matter entirely. Haruka is the type to be easily embarrassed when it is something concerning his girlfriend. Well, what can you say? Like father like son. Morimiya Kazuya is all stoic and brutal but when he is alone with his two wives… Melia had the bad luck of walking on her parents' alone time one day and let's say that she obliviate herself with her mother's wand an hour later… which sadly doesn't work.
Haruka now had to endure turning red as Xenovia shows him what she chooses one after another. The first is a set of rather child-like white bra and panties which is obviously a no-go. It didn't even faze him despite being worn by Xenovia due to how unsuitable it is for someone as well developed as Xenovia.
"Then how about this?"
The next one Xenovia shows him is…
"I think pure white is more Irina's style but it does look good on me, right?"
Haruka could only nod as he tries maintaining his pokerface. When he went pokerface, Xenovia knows that he's close to being embarrassed. Great, everything is as planned. Xenovia closed the changing room curtain while putting the white bra and panties set away. That one is not good enough since like she said it herself, it is more Irina's color than her.
The next one started the hell. It is a set of sexy black bra and panties.
"Like what you see~?"
Xenovia said seductively.
"Stop embarrassing me."
Haruka managed to speak clearly though Xenovia knows that it's because of his discipline rather than disinterest. The fact that he said that is a success in itself. The black set is definitely a must.
Next is red and lacy which made Haruka twitch even more. In all honesty, Xenovia is trying to make Haruka get a nosebleed. He had seen and admired her body a few times after that 'shangri-la' incident but never once did her get a nosebleed. The most she got is an expression of approval and that's much more than what other girls could pull. Xenovia then proceed to show a few more sets to Haruka which gains her more reaction each time. But Xenovia saved the best for the last. Now this last one is a little hard for Xenovia to describe. It is definitely NOT an underwear as it is almost transparent. Right, it will be useless for daily use but the shopkeeper insists that it will definitely be useful for… other things. It will definitely pronounce her assets and there's a ribbon that push up her breast but… Xenovia is stuck with this one. So as a result, she dragged Haruka into the changing room without thinking.
"What are you do- what in the Witch's name is that?"
Haruka questioned, almost dropping his pokerface while pointing at the… thing in Xenovia's hand.
"Well, I don't know if it will look good on me so I want your opinion."
Xenovia changed without care in front of Haruka. After the fifth time he had seen her naked, it felt normal to Xenovia. She knows that Haruka won't do anything to her unless she invites him (or he totally lost control).
"…it actually looks good on you."
"You think so?"
"Yes…"
"Then I'll buy this one."
"What for?"
"For when you decide we should make children."
"…okay."
After Haruka silently swearing that he would never accompany Xenovia there ever again (impossible), the two of them went around for a while. Xenovia mostly only look around for a while before losing interest and went somewhere else. Haruka is at least grateful that Xenovia is not the type that look around too much and then not buy anything. He already had enough of that with Melia and while Irina won't look around for useless things, she is not one who could decide on something easily. Xenovia is much like his mother in that department. They both shop when they need to and they shop fast.
"So what do you want to do next?"
Haruka asked. There is still an hour and forty minutes until they have to go.
"I rarely come here except when I need to so maybe I want to try something new. Nee Haruka, what's that shop?"
Xenovia point at a shop that sells CDs. It's a music shop.
"A music shop? Good idea, I want to check a few things, let's go."
Haruka and Xenovia spent a good forty five minutes browsing through musics. Xenovia seems to find the shop a novelty. She never visited a shop like this before. Haruka though is another matter. As a fan of EGOIST, he bought all EGOIST singles available at that time. He didn't have time to update his collection so when he found the new single 'Reloaded' Haruka looks as pleased as if the Golden Witch had keeled over and die by herself. His favorite song is still 'Departures' though.
Haruka gave Xenovia a few recommendations but mostly upbeat ones since Xenovia likes them. Xenovia's favorite is 'Inori wa tsurugi, kawaranu wa chikai' by Taneda Risa. Surprisingly, Xenovia could sing the song with 100% accuracy and her voice is eerily similar to the singer, Haruka likes it. After paying for the CDs, the two of them decided that it's time to head back.
"So how's the date?"
Momoka's voice came from the kitchen when the couple entered their shared apartment.
"It's good."
Xenovia replied curtly. It is not bad but not really notable in her book. Haruka also has the same opinion. Besides, the highlight of the day is the Christmas mass and not the date. The real date will be tomorrow during the Christmas party.
"Hmm, if you say so. Anyway, food is ready."
All in all, it's a normal day for the Shijou, Shidou, Quarta household.
"Ahh, I forgot to send my present to tou-san and Aya kaa-san!"
"Another thing for me to take care off."
Part 3: A Trinity's Nostalgia
-the day after-
Haruka slept his usual sleep hour after attending the Christmas mass in heaven. Say what you may about him but he is quite a believer despite his heritage. Nowhere as strong as those borderline fanatics but he believes God's words in spreading goodness.
Momoka did not attend the mass since she is a non-believer so she took on odd jobs for her son which translates to being Santa and deliver presents to their friends, especially their foster family. It is funny actually when she met the REAL Santa. Momoka was flying over England to deliver Haruka's present for his foster parents when she came across Santa. It turns out that this world's Santa is a sexy white haired young girl named Charles. They almost fought since Charles mistaken her for someone trying to steal her job. It took Momoka explaining what she is doing while dodging hails of ice to make Charles calm down. After a short chat which reveals that good old Saint Nick is actually her father did Momoka finally manage to deliver Haruka's presents. Since the Shidou adults are also attending a mass, Momoka spent the night accompanying Charles. It is quite enjoyable and she's a nice child training to succeed her father. After the mass ended, the Shidou household in England had a family dinner together with Haruka bringing Irina and Xenovia along using [Black Door]. Momoka also joined in halfway while also inviting Charles as a friend. Needless to say that it is a memorable night.
Today though is the main highlight of the season. Haruka, Xenovia, and Irina had returned to Kuoh via [Black Door] and catch some good sleep before preparing for the Christmas party.
Around 3 p.m, Haruka heard a knock coming from the front door. Momoka was the one who answered and was slightly surprised to find…
"Kazu, Sera, Melia, Sakura!"
It is the Trinity group.
"Yahoo Momo-tan!"
As expected, Sera gave her a big hug while Kazuya only smirked. Sakura shook her head at Sera's usual antics and Melia invites herself in.
"Otouto-kun! Have you prepared for the party?!"
She shouted which woke up all the sleeping occupants of the apartment.
"I'm up!"
Replied Haruka. Xenovia is standing up groggily while Irina is rubbing her eyes.
"Hello son."
Was Kazuya's curt greeting.
"Geh, oyaji."
Haruka flinched when he sees his birth father. It's not like their relation is bad but Haruka is just awkward around his father due to his years of absence. He didn't blame him but he can't think of Kazuya as his real father when the father he knew most of his life is Shidou Touji. Still, Kazuya is family and Haruka loves being with his family… although admittedly Kazuya is his least favorite.
"What are you doing here oyaji?"
He asked.
"While you have your date, I'm having my own. I'm here to pick up Momoka and drop a few things with you."
"A date? At your age?"
"Hoo, are you implying something, brat?"
"Old man like you should be careful not to strain his back."
"And young children like you shouldn't go out at this hour."
"Like you'll ever stop me!"
"You're picking a fight here brat?!"
Momoka want to facepalm at the sight of her husband and son picking a fight with each other like usual every time they met. Melia though describe this as their bonding time which Serafall agrees. The two always seems to like to test each other's patience and it is interesting since they have opposite temperament. Haruka is a very patient man while Kazuya has a short fuse. Serafall and Melia always enjoys the scene. They seem to have equal amount of patient when it is with each other. Haruka seems to easily be irritated by Kazuya while Kazuya seems to have better control of his emotion with Haruka though still a shorter temper than with Melia. It is still a wonder that they haven't fought each other.
Suddenly though, they turn from growling at each other to smiling and then a laughing. This is another strange thing about them. They can start a random quarrel with each other then suddenly turn to best of friends in a mere moment. Momoka had given up in trying to understand the relationship between father and son while Melia and Serafall always find them interesting.
"I hope you enjoy your date and please, in the name of Akasha, don't destroy the planet. I love my home and I'll be pissed if anything were to happen."
"Don't worry, Momo and Sera are with me so it'll be fine. Enjoy your own date. I'm proud of you for being everything that I'm not, my son."
Kazuya gave his son a pat on his head and ruffles his hair before he went out smiling together with his wives. If he had to be honest, he likes Haruka a lot. He reminds him of his old self though still very different. He might feel awkward around the boy but it's always good to see him. He had missed his son's early life and he regretted it but he also felt relief that he had become the person he is today who has the qualities he lacked. The worst of his qualities includes his short temper and tendency to go overboard in a battle which his daughter inherited to a certain degree.
'Hmm, what was it called back then before this day is known as Christmas? Ahh yes, it's called 'Day of Hope' back then. I remember 'her' always pestering me to take her to town each time the day came.'
A young Rolan Elenfried is accompanying a young teen girl with long blonde hair as she walks in the busy street of the capital in celebration of 'Day of Hope'. It was said that on this day, thousands of years ago, a war god fought for mankind against an evil goddess who seeks to destroy them. The evil goddess had destroyed many lands and left the world in ruin when the war god took up arm and fought the evil goddess. This very day marks the day of the final battle between the two where the war god prevails though also fell due to the wounds he suffered. Through his sacrifice though the world was reborn anew giving hope to those who survived. Rolan found the legend somehow very familiar but cannot really remember why.
"There you are milord."
"Uh oh."
Rolan felt blood draining from his face when he heard that voice. Of course he would recognize that voice. Her voice is something he hears on a daily basis, even more than his parents and siblings'. Only his blonde childhood friend's voice is as easily recognizable to him. Coming from behind him looking slightly irritated is a beautiful young girl with beautiful blood red hair that Rolan secretly like to stroke whenever she fell asleep. She is his attendant and bodyguard, ****** *********"
"******! When did you get here?!"
"Don't try to get away from me, milord. The guards at the palace have been hectic since morning due to your disappearance."
"Ahh, yes… well, it's not my fault! It's a yearly occurrence since ********* always drags me with her on this day!"
"Lady *********? She's here with you?"
"Ahh, ******! Here to join us?"
Said young noble lady's head popped out from the crowds and immediately caught sight of the red head's presence. With graceful steps, the blond girl walks through the crowd and met up with her two favorite people in the kingdom. Although she still has that ever-present smile on her face, the red head is frowning.
"Milady, why did you take my lord with you on this… excursion without informing anyone in the palace?"
"Well it's like a tradition for me to drag Rolan down during Day of Hope. There's always something interesting down here on this day. Staying in the palace would be boring."
The red head sighs. She's used to the blonde's upbeat personality and her antics but that doesn't mean that she could give her more work to do. She doubts that anyone can actually hurt her lord though with his skill but she is still his aide and bodyguard and not informing her before taking prince Rolan away will give her trouble.
"Even so, you have to at least inform me if you want to take milord somewhere. I am his aide and I won't be able to do my work if I'm not by his side constantly."
"…Ahh! I see, so you're jealous that I'm taking all of Rolan's attention! I'm sorry ******, I didn't know you're the jealous type. Don't worry, I can share with you. Rolan's love is big enough for the two of us."
"Wh-what?! No! It's not like that! I definitely don't have that kind of feeling for Rolan!"
"Ha! You finally use his name! You always do that when you're flustered!"
Rolan watches the two of them from the sideline with great fondness. He of course knew of both girls' feeling for him and he sure appreciates it. He loves them very much and equally as well. If only he wasn't a prince, the three of them could be together without much trouble.
"Alright, stop it ladies, you're making a scene here."
He broke up the two when the red head seems to be at the end of her patience. The blonde girl immediately complies but as a final act of provocation, went and grab Rolan's right hand. Forgetting about her duty and position, the red head went and grab Rolan's left hand, not wanting to be outdone. The rest of the day passes with Rolan being in the middle of a tug-of-war between the two girls, wanting to have Rolan all to herself though also willing to share if it is with each other. They're just that close with each other.
Kazuya ended his reminiscence when he felt both of his hands being pulled. His right hand is in Serafall's while his left is in Momoka's. For a moment, Serafall's visage was replaced by that of a smiling blonde woman and Momoka's replaced by a frowning red head beauty. Although his life had taken a turn for the worst when the Golden Witch returned, Kazuya managed to pull out a happy smile as the illusion of his old companions smiled at him from behind Momoka and Serafall.
'I guess it won't hurt to enjoy this day to the fullest… just like old times.'
Part 4: Christmas Party
After the Third Trinity left with his two spouses, the First Trinity left her present for Irina, Melia, Haruka, and Xenovia before telling them that she will be attending a Christmas party in her homeworld. Saying her goodbye to the teens, she disappeared in a flash of golden light, leaving behind four season greeting cards. The first to take one of the cards is Melia. On the card is the picture of Sakura herself in a sexy santa outfit. The others then follow and took one card each to find that the other cards also has the First Trinity in sexy santa outfit in different poses with different backgrounds. Melia's card has her showing her cleavage while cuddling a reindeer doll. Irina's has Sakura lying on a sofa in front of a Christmas tree while winking and giving a seductive look. Haruka's has Sakura blowing a kiss complete with pink hearts and snowy background. Xenovia's is the most normal though with the First Trinity giving a peace sign.
"I forgot how much Sakura-san loves to act like a teenage schoolgirl."
Melia commented. Each Trinity has a personality flaw and this is The First Trinity's. She doesn't act her age when not in serious mode.
"Anyway, I'll be heading out now. I need to prepare a few things with Sona. I'll meet you guys at the party."
Melia told them before she head out by herself. Then again, the three exorcists hadn't changed their clothes… or took a bath for that matter. Haruka went in first while Irina and Xenovia went in later together. After taking his bath, Haruka put on the clothes his mother prepared for him. He didn't ask but immediately realize what it is. It is one of his father's suit. His father's usual choice of attire is a jet black suit with white linings complete with black tie and it is what he is currently wearing. Haruka had to admit that it doesn't look bad on him. It makes him look sharp and most of all, it is even more durable than his exorcist battle uniform. Of course, it is not an old set but a new set since it is only a few days old from what Haruka get through structural analysis.
"Uwaa! Onii-sama looks so cool!"
"I always thought that he would look good in a suit but this exceeds my expectation."
Came the voice of his little sister and girlfriend. When he look at them, Haruka found himself to be unable to look away, especially from Xenovia.
Irina is wearing a red party dress with frills which fully shows her slim figure. Haruka had to admit that Irina had truly grown from that tomboyish little girl from their child days and had grown into a fine young woman. Haruka swear that he will kill anyone who tries to hurt his little sister. She truly looks like an angel (which she is).
Xenovia though looks even more amazing. On her hair is a hairclip with a white rose decoration while the green streak which she usually has was gone. Her dress though is perhaps a little overdone. It is a velvet blue party dress that reach down to the floor, the kind of length Xenovia is not used to. It seems to even include a corset underneath which put emphasis on her figure, pushing her breasts to make her cleavage more noticeable and her waist seems even slimmer. Xenovia also wear a pair of velvet blue gloves. Haruka would later found out that it was made by Kazuya himself from his memories of his first wife's party dress. It makes sense since his first wife is literally a princess and later his queen. Kazuya's reason is that he wants Xenovia to be a proper lady befitting of his son but it is mostly for Haruka to enjoy. He knows a few things about his son.
"Do I look strange?"
Xenovia asked. Haruka could only shook his head in response as he is much too captivated to give a decent reply. Xenovia looks very different and more… lady-like. Scratch that, she looks like a bona-fide princess and Haruka likes it. Kazuya knows what his son likes and this can be considered as his Christmas present for him.
"Onii-sama is too speechless seeing you like this, Xenovia."
"Really?"
"Yes."
At least Haruka stayed in character and not gaping at her… or drooling. He is much too dignified for that. Haruka opened a [Black Door] which connects to the Student Council room where they appear. As expected, Melia is already there wearing a black dress as beautiful as Xenovia's. The things a mother would do for her daughter. Momoka and Serafall tailored their children's attire personally with their hands and both Haruka and Melia are thankful to their respective mother for their love and care… even if they're not really the best of parents with their quirks.
"Ahh, otouto-kun! Finally here?"
Melia skipped happily to her brother though still looking straight-faced. How she manage to do that Haruka will never know.
"Merry Christmas everyone in the student council and Yuuto-kun."
Haruka greeted the student council members present which currently consists of Sona Sitri, Shinra Tsubaki, and Meguri Tomoe. Kiba Yuuto is present beside Tsubaki, obviously accompanying his date for the party.
"Merry Christmas, Haruka-san, Irina-san, Xenovia-san."
Yuuto was the first to give a reply which was soon followed by the others.
"What about me otouto-kun?"
"Ohh yeah, Merry Christmas Melia-nee."
"And a very Merry Christmas to you too, otouto-kun."
Melia then turn to Xenovia.
"Nice dress Via."
"Yes, it is a gift from Momoka-san though she said that it's not actually from her and was actually made by someone else."
"Hoo…"
Melia noticed that her structural analysis had been blocked and she couldn't analyze the dress. She then proceeds to touch the fabric, touching Xenovia in the process.
"Hey, Melia! What are you doing?!"
"Hmm, I see… he's not honest at all."
Melia muttered with a small smile, a knowing smile.
"Ehh?"
"Nothing. I'm just curious about who made the dress, that's all."
"You can tell just by the touch?"
"Somewhat. Anyway, let's get the party started everyone. It's time to head to the gym."
All of them began to file out with Melia in the lead. But before they reached the gym, Melia and Sona broke up from the group saying that they still have something else to do.
"You know, for a school event, you make this look almost like a real formal party."
Irina said as she look around at everyone who are dressed formally.
"It can't be helped with the planning left to kaicho, this is to be expected. Kaicho only has experience with formal events while if we left it to Melia-sama…"
"Don't say it, I understand, it will be chaotic with lots of drunkard."
"You do know your sister well."
"I have the bad luck of accompanying her to something she would call a party. You won't believe how much alcohol she could handle and she's only nineteen."
"Isn't underage drinking not allowed?"
"It's totally legal if you know the right place and she knows where. The club was destroyed after her two hundredth bottle and I had to deal with the aftermath. That's last month.
"Wait, how many bottles did you just said?"
Before anyone else could ask further questions to Haruka, the lights in the gym went out while two people receive the spotlight on the stage. It is Melia and Sona.
"Ohh, it's the welcoming speech… why aren't I there? I'm the fukukaicho."
Tsubaki complained a little. Sona started her speech.
"I would like to thank you and welcome you all to Kuoh Academy's annual Christmas party."
"Although it should've been yesterday, we postponed the party to be exactly on Christmas so that our friends who are attending the mass yesterday could join us."
"Now, I would like to speak about a few things before we start. First, please do not cause any chaos like each year where we have to repair things after you're all done. This is the first party planned by the Student Council and I don't want any incident."
"It's a formal event Sona, it's hard to find trouble in these kinds of events unless between families with a feud against each other. The most likely cause would be someone getting drunk and started groping breasts."
Melia's comment made SOME of the audience laughs.
"There's no need for a comment like that, Melia. And that's the second thing I would like to address. No drinking alcohol!"
Sona stated sternly… before she heard the sound of someone drinking. She had a bad feeling about it and with fear in her heart, glance at her niece standing beside her. Morimiya Melia is already drinking wine.
"I have a stash that I'll bring in after this but drink only as much as you can hold. Drunkards will still be cast out. Anyway, enjoy the party!"
"MELIA!"
Everyone cheered as Issei and Kousuke brought in the stash Melia promised. They're all fine wines around a decade old. Of course, Melia won't give them the real good ones, those a few centuries old, since those are her personal stash.
"That sister of mine."
Haruka groaned, almost facepalming as he sees Melia jump down from the stage while being chased around by Sona. He got the feeling that it's all planned by Melia and the only person who would cause chaos tonight is Melia herself.
"Onii-sama, I'm going to look for Ophis."
"Yuuto-kun, shall we?"
Everyone began to do their own thing as the party started. Of course that includes Haruka and Xenovia. After walking for a while, the couple met another couple that they recognize much too well and have a complicated relation with.
"Tatenashi."
"Xenovia-san."
The two girls locked their eyes and like their usual meetings, sparks seems to flow between them but no real hostility can be felt. It is just another normal meeting between Xenovia Quarta and Sarashiki Tatenashi. The boys though…
"Reika."
"Haruka."
Only acknowledge each other's presence while acting indifferent. Unlike the girls who seem to have thousands of things to say, the two males have decided to apply a policy of non-interference outside of the battlefield.
"I didn't know you're invited."
"Ara Xenovia-san, you forgot that I am still a student of this school."
"…I forgot since I never see you."
"I think it's best if we don't come too close to each other too many times."
"Agreed."
"Anyway, Merry Christmas, Xenovia-san."
"Merry Christmas, Tatenashi. I would've sent you a Christmas card but I don't know your address."
"Why not later?"
"That's fine."
While the two girls are chatting rather civilly, Haruka and Reika are watching while drinking the drinks provided by Melia in complete silence. That was when Issei came and asked.
"Have any of you seen Ophis?"
"Come to think of it, I haven't seen Melia-nee since the opening speech."
The answer to their question came in the form of five spotlights on the stage. Starting from the leftmost corner is Irina, Sona, Melia, Towa, and then Ophis in that order. All of them are dressed similarly in front of a mike each. To the audience's surprise, especially Haruka, Issei, and Xenovia, the five of them began to sing in complete harmony.
Saa Christmas ippai no egao
kimi ni todoketa party night
saa Christmas ippai no negai
kimi ni chikaunda holy holy night
kotoshi no Christmas chotto tokubetsu sa
White Christmas janaku datte
hoshikuzu no illumination
hora furitsumoru yo
kirakira kagayaite
minna ga shiawase de
chikachika matataite
minna ga yume wo mite
saa Christmas ippai no egao
kimi ni todoketa party night
saa Christmas ippai no negai
kimi ni chikaunda holy holy night
kotoshi no Christmas kitto tokubetsu sa
lonely Christmas ja tsumaranai
egao wa illumination
hora kazatteageru
yurayura yurameite
minna de te wo tsunagi
pikapika kirameite
minna de hoshi miage
saa Christmas ippai no egao
kimi ni todoketa party night
saa Christmas ippai no negai
kimi ni chikaunda holy holy night
When they finished singing, everyone is already cheering while Issei is gaping at the sight of Ophis actually singing. Haruka and Xenovia hid their surprise better.
"So that's why Melia asked me to lend Twilight to her."
"I didn't know my two nee-san could sing."
"That's not a bad singing."
"Yeah, I admit that it's not bad."
Tatenashi could say that she's impressed that the emotionless Ophis could sing. Melia is somewhat expected. Although nobody knows how, she could change the tone of her voice even while maintaining a pokerface. It is impressive that with such a lineup they could sing in perfect harmony. Irina is the only one whom anyone would expect to sing. The other four are the ice queen type after all… except maybe Melia since she has a penchant for causing mayhem despite her usual expression.
Haruka suddenly look at his watch.
"Ohh, it's already time."
"Time? What time?"
"The reservation I made."
"What?"
Before Xenovia could ask anything else, Haruka swept her off her feet and opened a [Black Door].
Final part:
When Xenovia manage to register what happened. They're already inside a car driven by none other than Siegfried with Brunhilde beside him.
"Thank you for agreeing to take us, Sieg."
"It's not a problem. Me and Hilde won't be far anyway. It turns out that the hotels that we made our reservations in are not far apart. I'll pick you up when you're done unless you two will be staying the night."
"I'll call when Xenovia had decided."
"What? Decide what?"
"Of course if you want to stay the night in a five star hotel. I've made dinner reservation in one just for us and asked Sieg if he could take us with him."
"Ohh… wait, I didn't hear anything about dinner reservation!"
"Ohh, because it's a secret."
Haruka winked which made Xenovia blush. He really knows how to pamper her from time to time. Soon they finally arrive at the hotel Haruka made his reservation in. Like a proper gentleman, Haruka escort Xenovia from the car before they walk hand-in-hand to the top floor. After being shown where their table, they made their order.
"I can't believe you would do all this for me."
"Not really hard when you have the connection and money."
"You paid for everything yourself?!"
"I didn't spend three years doing nothing but spying and minor stuff. I made a lot of money from doing things while looking for information. There's this one time I had to infiltrate a high-class party of magicians planning to do another questionable rituals like what they tend to do. Golden Dawn made that request and they pay nicely. I even got a reward for managing to stop Fairy Tale criminal organization. I also do some odd jobs and even worked as a deliveryman and kaa-san worked as a cook a few times."
"…You really did a lot of things."
"Ahh, there's also that one skirmish with a former Fairy Tale captain in London. The Big Ben was bent to an angle as a result. I hoped nobody found out that it was me."
"How did you manage to do that anyway?"
"Balance Break. I haven't train much with it and since kaa-san thought that it's a good time for practice and well…"
"Sometimes you're just as reckless as your sister."
"Ahaha."
Haruka is slightly embarrassed when Xenovia mentioned his passing similarity with his sister. He loves Melia but he certainly doesn't want to be like her.
"…I love you."
"Haruka?"
"I love you so much, Xenovia."
Xenovia was caught off guard when Haruka kissed her on the lips. It is a light kiss but a kiss nonetheless. They're not the type of couple who would kiss at every chance they get but when they do they put all their feelings to that single kiss.
"…Nee Haruka, what do you like about me?"
"Why do you ask?"
"Unlike you, I'm not very smart. I'm not as beautiful as Melia or Gremory. I'm also a power idiot. I'm not even very good in the kitchen."
"Why do you need to compare yourself to them?"
"Sometimes I think that you deserve better than me. You're just too good for me."
"Really?"
Haruka asked as he place his hand on Xenovia's cheek.
"You gave me too much credit, Xenovia. I am not as great as you thought I am. I'm somewhat careless and even absent-minded. Remember that I left you for three years without saying anything? I'm not perfect Xenovia. I have my flaws like you have yours."
"Haruka."
"Xenovia, you completed me."
"And you me, Haruka."
"There are lots of wonderful things about you, more than you know. You're loyal, kind, and a hard worker. You're wonderful, Xenovia. I love your hair, I love your eyes, I love how you blush, I love the time when you speak and the time when you're silent, and most of all, I love you for being a part of my life. You're my other half and I would like it to stay that way forever."
"Haruka, you sound as if you're proposing to me."
"Actually…"
Haruka took out a small box from inside his suit. He then walk to Xenovia's side and kneel. He then presents her with a ring made of silver and diamond.
"I might be doing this a little too early but… Xenovia, will you marry me?"
Words couldn't properly explain how Xenovia felt at this moment. Tears began to overflow at the sight of Shidou Haruka presenting her the chance to be together with him for all eternity. She wouldn't want it with anybody else and so with tearful eyes she said…
"Yes…"
Haruka took her left hand and slid the ring to her ring finger.
"You've made me the happiest man alive, Via."
Haruka smiled the brightest smile he had ever shown Xenovia. Xenovia also smiles from beneath her tears of happiness as the two share another kiss, this time much deeper and filled with affection and happiness. For Haruka and Xenovia, this is the best Christmas present ever and they will never forget it forever.
On a table not far from the couple's own though hidden from view by a pillar sat another familiar couple.
"About time, don't you think?"
"Despite everything, he's still a hopeless romantic."
"Aww, aren't you similar to him? After all, the two of you seem to have the same idea and even the same place for the idea."
"Shut it… I don't like being compared to him."
"But you're happy for them, right?"
"Yes… Truly, today is a day filled with wonder and happiness. Even the Witch didn't make any movement. Last I heard, she's actually dancing in the snow somewhere in Norwegia."
"Yes. Not even she would ruin a day that signifies hope."
"Yes… Truly it is a most wonderful day, a day of salvation."
"True. I've never seen Morimiya Kazuya so happy before."
"I also wonder about that. But enough about that, I still have a lot more dinners to come in different parts of the world."
"Ufufufu, you did promise everyone a candlelight dinner."
"Don't remind me of that, Katana."
"Maa, just enjoy it, Reika."
"Damn straight I will."
Sarashiki Tatenashi and Reika toasted before they drink each other's wine.
"Merry Christmas, Katana."
"Merry Christmas, Reika"
Finally done! This is the longest chapter I've ever written. So how's the christmas special? Good? Bad? I think it's so-so. I usually made an original story with Winter as theme for my usual Christmas story. Usually involves tragic heroines and stuff. I will repeat once more, this chapter has no relation with the current plot and is therefore a whole separate story like an IF story. I haven't advanced the main plot far enough to actually implement the things I wrote here into the plot. Anyway, the main inspiration for this story came from Toradora's christmas arc and Da Capo series' numerous Christmas Party preparation, or more like from Da Capo Dream X'mas. That's one good VN that I played many times over. Anyway, I put EGOIST in this story since I'm a fan and I love Inori-sama so much! Departures is still my main favorite since it's just so beautiful. Another thing to note is that 'Inori wa Tsurugi, Kawaranu wa Chikai' is Xenovia's character song and Taneda Risa is Xenovia's voice actor if anyone forgets. The song is great and it's Xenovia-ish, I like it. And there is the Christmas party. I draw reference from Toradora for that one. I even put in the song that Taiga and Ami sang together in that episode. A perfect song for the season. And then the last part is me satisfying my love for Xenovia and I always want to try out a proposal scene before writing one for real. Just call everything here an experiment for future plot.
Anyway, how about Kazuya's flashback scene? It's a small glimpse of Kazuya's past. As a reminder for those who didn't know, Kazuya became Morimiya Kazuya when he married Momoka. He adopted a japanese name since his wife is japanese. His original name is Rolan Elenfried and it is used quite much in the prequel story.
Anyway, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year everyone!